Tightened controls at the Slovak-Hungarian border due to virus outbreak

In response to the growing threat of foot-and-mouth disease, Slovak authorities have ramped up border and road checks, particularly along the Slovak-Hungarian border. With thousands of vehicles inspected and strict disinfection measures in place, officials are working to contain the outbreak and protect livestock industries. As cases emerge in hotspot areas, increased biosecurity efforts remain crucial in preventing the further spread of this highly contagious disease.

Intensified measures at the Slovak–Hungarian border

VG reports that Slovak authorities have intensified border and road checks in response to the spread of foot-and-mouth disease. A heightened level of caution has been introduced, leading to rigorous inspections of vehicles, particularly those transporting animals. On Saturday alone, between 7 am and 7 pm, more than 4,100 vehicles were examined, with 222 specifically scrutinised for animal transport. Among them, six were found to be carrying livestock. According to Zuzana Hrabovská from the Slovak National Police Headquarters’ Communications and Prevention Department, the increased controls at the Slovak-Hungarian border are aimed at curbing the outbreak’s spread.

Vehicle redirected

Új Szó highlights a specific case in which a vehicle carrying pigs was redirected back to Lysá pod Makytou (Fehérhalom) under the orders of the State Veterinary and Food Safety Inspectorate (ŠVPS). Authorities continue to enforce strict containment measures on the Slovak-Hungarian border, particularly in hotspot areas such as Baka. Here, police monitor vehicle movements throughout the day, ensuring that all vehicles entering and exiting the municipality undergo disinfection. These steps are crucial in preventing further transmission of the disease.

Biosecurity

The Slovak police, in collaboration with the State Veterinary and Food Safety Inspectorate, have pledged to maintain heightened surveillance along the Slovak-Hungarian border and other affected areas. Controls remain in place at designated border crossings and within zones where outbreaks have been detected. With foot-and-mouth disease posing a significant threat to livestock, authorities are committed to enforcing stringent biosecurity measures to safeguard both national and regional agriculture.

What is foot-and-mouth disease?

Foot-and-mouth disease is a highly contagious viral infection that affects cloven-hoofed animals, such as cattle, sheep, and pigs. It spreads rapidly through direct contact, contaminated surfaces, and even airborne transmission, causing fever, blisters, and lameness in infected animals. The disease poses a serious threat to agriculture and livestock industries, leading to strict control measures, including movement restrictions and disinfection protocols. Amid concerns over its spread, authorities have reinforced biosecurity efforts along key transport routes, including the Slovak-Hungarian border, to prevent further outbreaks and protect animal health.

Read also:

• End of Schengen Zone at the Hungarian-Austrian border? Locals protested
• Deadly virus detected in Hungary